Senior Air Force NCOs in test program can become officers in two weeks

Officer Training School cadets take the oath of office during their graduation parade at Maxwell Air Force Base, Ala., June 2016. The Air Force will test a program that accelerates OTS training for senior noncommissioned officers, cutting the course to 14 days.

The Air Force is testing a program that will turn senior noncommissioned officers into commissioned officers in 14 days.

The Officer Training School-Accelerated Commissioning Program, a beta test at Maxwell Air Force Base, Ala., will begin in August, compressing the normal 40-day course to two weeks, according to an April 30 service statement.

The first course will have 36 candidates in the ranks of master sergeant to chief master sergeant: 26 active duty airmen, five reservists and five National Guardsmen. A second course will take place in October.

Candidates for the beta test were chosen from the January-February 2019 OTS selection board. Eligible SNCOs must have completed the SNCO Academy course and been selected for Officer Training School through the normal board process, officials stated. Airmen cannot apply directly for the OTS-ACP program.

“Ultimately, the aim is to drive agility and flexibility in our processes and programs so that we more efficiently and effectively deliver qualified, trained, educated and experienced Airmen to meet mission requirements,” officials said.